Redefining the concept of urbanization in India is necessary

In the vast and dynamic landscape of India, the traditional definition of urban areas is undergoing a significant transformation. This metamorphosis is driven by a growing recognition of the complexities and interconnectedness of rural and urban economies, and the need for policies that promote balanced regional development.

Currently, there are census towns near megacities with a population of up to 75,000 that have not been classified as urban. These areas, despite exhibiting high economic activity, improved infrastructure, and connectivity, are left out due to their population not meeting the threshold. However, with the increasing prevalence of industries, service-sector jobs, and non-agricultural employment opportunities in rural areas, the binary classification of areas as rural or urban based solely on occupation is becoming increasingly problematic.

McDonald's outlets in India, surprisingly, have been used as proxies for defining urban spaces. Regions with high economic output, diversified industries, and active trade and commerce networks, regardless of population size, should be classified as urban. This approach acknowledges the reality that areas with robust transportation networks, internet penetration, and market access often function as urban hubs.

The current framework for defining urban areas in India is largely subjective and relies on state bureaucracy, population size, density, and occupational distribution. This subjectivity has led to disparities in the provision of urban services, such as healthcare, education, water supply, sanitation, and waste management. Access to these services is a more meaningful indicator of urbanisation.

Redefining urban boundaries to include peri-urban regions and emerging towns will expand the reach of urban governance. This expansion will necessitate a severe increase in the jurisdictional area of the Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) or municipalities for public service delivery. It will also open up property tax, user charges, and other urban revenue streams to city governments in newly drafted urban areas.

The redefinition of urban areas also has far-reaching implications for policy, planning, and governance. Adopting a multidimensional approach can ensure that policies and programmes are better aligned with the realities on the ground, paving the way for more equitable and sustainable urban development. This approach recognises that urbanisation is not just a physical or economic process but also a socio-cultural phenomenon.

Tarun Arora and Reetika Syal, researchers represented in this article, teach at the University of Delhi. They emphasise that redefining urban areas can help integrate urban and rural development efforts. This integration is crucial for addressing the challenges posed by India's rapidly urbanising population, which is expected to host over 800 million people by 2050.

In conclusion, redefining urban areas in India presents an opportunity to create a more equitable and sustainable urban landscape. By acknowledging the complexities and interconnectedness of rural and urban economies, and adopting a multidimensional approach to defining urban areas, we can ensure that policies and programmes are better aligned with the realities on the ground, paving the way for a more equitable and sustainable future.